Can You Legally Own A Fennec Fox?

He's small, adorable and sports huge ears. If you lose your heart to a fennec fox, use your head and check with your state wildlife agency to see if you can legally own this tiny creature. Don't risk having to give up your pet if he's not allowed in your community. If he's illegal and requires veterinary care, your veterinarian must report him to the appropriate agency.

Even if your state allows ownership of fennec foxes — with or without a permit — that might not be the case for your county or municipality. If your state does allow fennec foxes, contact your local animal control agency to ensure there are no municipal laws regarding fox-keeping. As of 2014, states banning possession of fennec foxes include Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada and Washington. States including Florida, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan and Texas require either a permit or health certificate for fennec foxes. New York statutes list the fennec fox as a companion animal.